Expensive Gifts for Teens That They Won't Want to Exchange

by Albert Varkki updated 10-29-2024

two teenagers opening presents on christmas morning

Let's face it, most teenagers are picky, so choosing a gift that they'll actually like and use is tough.

Choosing a high-end luxury gift gives you a good chance of impressing them, particularly something timeless and elegant that will make them feel like one of the grown-ups.

For an extra special touch, personalize the gift with their name or a message, to give the gift a personal connection that they will cherish for years to come.

Here are our top picks for teenage girls and boys:

Best High-End Gifts for Teenagers

Isabella Shoulder Bag

Isabella Shoulder Bag

Best for stylishly carrying essentials while you're on the move, the Isabella Shoulder Bag is practical, cute, and stylish.

Isabella Shoulder Bag Product Highlights:

MaterialPremium Italian full-grain leather
ClosureMagnetic snap closure
OriginCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather from Tuscany
CraftsmanshipMade in Florence, Italy by skilled artisans
Inner LiningFine Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Inner PocketOne zipped pocket inside
Shoulder StrapAdjustable and detachable
VersatilityCan be carried as a crossbody bag or clutch purse
PersonalizedOption to personalize with initials or a special message
Unique and Thoughtful GiftSuitable for any occasion, showcasing thoughtfulness

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Our review:

"This unisex bag for work could be for you if you're seeking something that offers fantastic longevity and comes with a range of highly desirable features. The bag has been manufactured in Florence by extremely skilled Italian craftsmen and is made from luxury full-grain leather. It has a magnetic snap closure and a suede leather interior, and there is also an adjustable leather strap to give you more comfort. You can wear it as a crossbody or a shoulder bag. The bag gives you capacity to carry notebooks, phones, wallets and various office essentials. Why not take a closer look today?"
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Multiple compartments for organized storage Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Designed for women
Stylish design
Can be worn as a shoulder bag or a crossbody bag
Comfortable to wear

Minimalist Leather Card Holder

minimalist leather card holder

Minimalist Leather Card Holder Product Highlights:

Color OptionsAvailable in multiple classic colors
Compact DesignFits easily into pockets or small bags
RFID ProtectionProvides RFID blocking technology for added security
Gift PackagingArrives in an elegant gift box, ready for gifting
High-Quality CraftsmanshipMeticulously crafted by skilled artisans
Versatile UsePerfect for holding credit cards, ID, and business cards
Durable and Long-LastingMade with exceptional full grain leather for lasting quality
Timeless StyleComplements both formal and casual attire
CustomizableOption to personalize with initials or a special message
Unique and Thoughtful GiftSuitable for any occasion, showcasing thoughtfulness

Watch the Minimalist product video below:

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Pros Cons
Premium Italian Full-Grain Leather Limited Capacity
Made in Italy Price
Lining with Special Properties
Sustainability
RFID Protection
Personalizable

Superior Leather Wash Bag

superior leather toiletry bag unisex and personalized

Best for organized and stylish travel with all your toiletries in one place - the Superior Leather Wash Bag.

Superior Leather Wash Bag Product Highlights:

Color OptionsAvailable in Solid Brown, Classic Tan, Elegant Black, and Deep Red
MaterialPremium Italian full-grain leather, certified vegetable tanned
OriginCrafted using Tuscan vegetable-tanned leather with a certificate of leather origin
ManufacturingMade in Florence, Italy by skilled artisans
Interior LiningDurable and water-repellent polyester fabric
Zipper QualityFeatures renowned Japanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices
DurabilityLong-wearing, made from vegetable-tanned full-grain Italian leather
CapacitySpacious enough for most travel toiletries with two main zipped compartments
CustomizableOption to personalize with initials or a special message

Watch the Superior product video below:

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Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Compact size Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Multiple compartments for organized storage
Stylish design
Convenient for travel and storage

Prime Women's Leather Backpack

prime large leather laptop backpack

Best for stylishly carrying work essentials and laptop, perfect for business meetings and daily commute.

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
Quality AssuranceComes with a certificate of leather origin
ManufacturingMade in Florence, Italy
Interior LiningFine Italian cotton lining
Zipper QualityJapanese YKK zippers
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Laptop SleeveDedicated sleeve for up to a 14" laptop
Carry-on CompliantMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
PersonalizedPersonalize this backpack with a laser engraving, perfect as a gift
Color OptionsSolid brown, classic tan, deep red, elegant black

Watch the Prime product video below:

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Our review:

"This high-selling unisex bag for work gives you enough storage space for all your key work essentials. The bag is made from tough and dependable materials that should ensure it lasts for years before it needs to be replaced. These materials include elegant Italian full-grain leather and a robust lining. The bag also has a reliable YKK zipper that makes it easy to access goods like your laptop. There's also a sleeve that will fit a laptop up to 14" or a tablet, making office-based and remote work a breeze. Other features which have made this bag such a popular choice include the adjustable shoulder straps and the wide top handle."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and versatile design Not waterproof
Multiple compartments for organization Not ideal for carrying extremely heavy items
Comfortable to wear
Durable and long-lasting
Develops a unique patina over time
Can be easily cleaned and maintained

Weekender Men's Leather Weekend Bag

leather laptop duffel bag weekender brown

Best for stylish weekend getaways with ample space for clothes and essentials - the perfect companion for any adventure.

Weekender Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious design perfect for gym and travel with a dedicated sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
InteriorDurable cotton lining with compartments for organization
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
ComplianceMeets airline size standards for carry-on luggage
CraftsmanshipHandcrafted in Florence, Italy by experienced craftsmen
Additional FeaturesAdjustable and removable leather shoulder strap, studs on the base for protection, solid brass hardware
PersonalizedOption for custom laser engraving
Use CasesTravel, gym, sports, weekend getaways
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices

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Our review:

"Are you looking for a great-looking and dependable unisex work bag made from outstanding materials? If so, this option will serve you well for years to come. Perfect for the office and the daily commute, this bag is manufactured by expert craftsmen in Florence. The bag comes complete with a sleeve to accommodate laptops up to 16" and enables you to transport a wealth of devices and accessories in style. The bag comes complete with a YKK zipper and robust cotton lining. Carrying this big-selling bag is a breeze due to the leather handles and the adjustable leather shoulder strap."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and sophisticated design Not completely waterproof
Ample storage space for essentials Not ideal for extremely heavy items
Comfortable to carry and handle
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Easy to clean and maintain
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Suitable for weekend trips and overnight stays

W1 Leather Purse

w1 leather purse

W1 Leather Purse Product Highlights:

MaterialPremium Italian Nappa Full Grain Leather
OriginHandcrafted in Florence, Italy
Leather QualitySoft, flexible, and pleasant to touch
LiningDurable and water-repellent polyester fabric
RFID ProtectionYes
StorageAbundant storage space
PersonalizedOption to personalize
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
Special FeatureTransparent pocket fits a picture sized 8.5 cm x 5.4 cm
ScentNatural leather scent

Watch the W1 product video below:

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Pros Cons
Premium Italian Nappa Leather Size Limitation for Phone
Made in Italy Might be bulky for some
Special Lining Limited color options
Sustainability
RFID Protection
Abundant Storage Space
Personalizable

No.2 Leather Messenger Briefcase

no2 leather messenger briefcase with shoulder strap in brown

Best for carrying your laptop and documents in style, the No. 2 Leather Messenger Briefcase is perfect for business meetings and daily commutes.

ProductNo.2 Briefcase
MaterialFull Grain Leather - Certified Vegetable Tanned
Laptop Sizeup to 15.6 inch
LiningDurable Cotton Canvas
ZippersYKK Zippers - Italian-Made
Handmade?Handmade in Florence, Italy
StrapsDetachable and Adjustable Shoulder Strap
Carry-on Compliant?Yes
Width40 cm (16 in)
Height30 cm (12 in)
Depth11 cm (4 in)
Weight1.55 kg (0.7 lbs)
PersonalizedCustom Laser Engraving

Watch the No.2 product video below:

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Our review:

"If you've been looking for a unisex briefcase for work that appeals to men and women alike, this Florence-made option made from premium Italian full-grade leather could be ideal. There's enough capacity for a 15.6 inch laptop, and key features include a double lock-and-key closure that you can use to protect sensitive documents as well as other valuable items. Mixing timeless design with modern functionality, the briefcase has tough cotton lining and a dependable YKK zipper. There are numerous compartments to take the fuss out of organisation. Choose between adjustable shoulder or cross-body strap. There are also two zipped pockets."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Stylish and professional design
Suitable for both commuting and business use
Adjustable shoulder strap for comfort

Deluxe Leather Glasses Case

Deluxe Leather Glasses Case for women

MaterialPremium Italian full-grain Nappa leather
InteriorBlack velvet
ClosureDurable Japanese-made Kanem snap button
PersonalizedCan be personalized for a special gift
PackagingComes with a gift box and a gift bag
Leather QualityFull grain, soft, flexible, and pleasant to touch
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly
StyleHandcrafted with a special tanning process
Color OptionsSolid brown, Elegant black

Watch the Deluxe product video below:

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Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a little high for a glasses case
Durable and long-lasting Size may not fit larger glasses
Stylish and elegant design
Soft interior lining to protect glasses
Compact and easy to carry
Suitable for both men and women

Money Clip Leather Money Clip Wallet

money clip leather wallet

MaterialPremium Italian Full-Grain Leather
Money Clip BarIncluded
PersonalizedOption to have embossed initials
RFID ProtectionYes, the wallet is RFID protected
Color OptionsChocolate Brown, Classic Tan, Elegant Black, 
OriginHandmade from Italian leather
LiningDurable and water-repellent lining made from polyester fabric
SustainabilitySupports local communities and does not harm the planet
Why Choose This?Handcrafted quality, timeless design, and functional features for the modern individual.

Watch the Money Clip product video below:

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ProsCons
Premium Italian Full-Grain LeatherPrice Point
HandmadeCare Requirements
Lining with Special Properties 
RFID Protection 
Sustainability 

No.1 Men's Leather Briefcase

no.1 mens leather briefcase in brown carried by man

Best for impressing at business meetings with its sleek design and spacious compartments - the No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase.

No.1 Briefcase Product Highlights:

MaterialCertified Italian vegetable-tanned leather
DesignSpacious triple-gusset design suitable for a laptop up to 15.6 inches
Interior LiningDurable Italian cotton lining
ZipperJapanese YKK zipper for reliable access
SecurityLocking feature for unattended safety
OriginMade in Florence, Italy
SustainabilitySupports local communities and eco-friendly practices
EngravingOption to personalize with engravings
Shoulder StrapPadded for extra comfort, adjustable and detachable
PersonalizedCustom engraving options available for a unique touch
UsageIdeal for professionals, travelers, and students; versatile for work, meetings, and travel

Watch the No.1 product video below:

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Our review:

"This exceptional unisex briefcase is extremely popular with women and men alike. The bag is designed to last for several years and is made from premium Italian full-grain leather. Some of the bag's best features include its triple-gusset design, convenient zipped back pocket and YKK zipper. The briefcase is as stylish as it is spacious and is made in Florence with the finest premium Italian leather. It offers enough space for a laptop of up to 15.6 inches to help you achieve more no matter where you are in the world. It also comes with tough cotton lining. Take a closer look today."
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather Price point may be considered a worthwhile investment
Durable and long-lasting Weight adds to its overall quality and strength
Spacious and versatile Proper care and maintenance will ensure its longevity
Classic and stylish design
Suitable for both professional and casual use

Voyager Leather Carry-on Bag with Wheels

voyager leather carry on bag with wheels in brown

Best for stylish and practical business travel with its spacious compartments, durable leather, and convenient wheels - the Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag.

Voyager Leather Carry-On Bag Product Highlights:

Color OptionsAvailable in Elegant Black, Solid Brown, Classic Tan, and more
Laptop SleeveIncludes a sleeve for up to a 16" laptop
MaterialHandmade from premium vegetable-tanned Italian leather
Convenience FeaturesSmooth-rolling wheels, foldaway telescopic handle with two height settings, and easily accessible pockets
InteriorDurable cotton lining with small slots and an interior zipped pocket
Zipper QualityHigh-quality Japanese YKK zippers
SustainabilityCrafted sustainably with a focus on supporting local communities
Origin CertificateComes with a certificate of leather origin guaranteeing quality and origin
Travel-FriendlyCarry-on compliant with ample space for travel essentials
Additional FeaturesLuggage tag included for easy identification

Watch the Voyager product video below:

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Our review:

"This big-selling unisex bag for work is popular with men and women alike. The bag is made from exquisite Italian full-grain leather and has been designed to serve you well on a daily basis for many years before it needs to be replaced. Achieve more whether you're in the office or working remotely thanks to the 16" laptop sleeve and make the most of the foldaway telescopic handle, wheels, luggage tag and carry-on compliance when you're travelling. The bag also has strong cotton lining and a tough YKK zipper. Why not take a closer look at this unisex work bag today?"
Pros Cons
Made of full grain leather May have a slightly higher cost compared to other materials
Stylish and refined appearance Not completely waterproof
Built-in wheels and retractable handle for effortless mobility Not ideal for extremely rough terrain
Ample storage space for essentials Not the lightest option for a carry-on bag
Durable and long-lasting construction
Develops a unique patina over time
Multiple compartments for organized packing
Perfect for business or personal travel

Benefits

brother and sister opening joint gift

High-Quality Experience

Unmatched quality means the best in durability and experience.

Versatile Usage

Expensive gifts are often very versatile, functioning well in various scenarios and situations.

Skill Development

The right gift can help cultivate a new hobby or interest, add to an existing one, or ignite a passion for something beyond their current experience.

Boosted Social Status

Status is big in the teen years, and a high-end gift can boost confidence and pride, both of which help navigate complex social circles.

Compatibility with Top Brands

These gifts work well with other premium products, complementing or enhancing other items owned by the teen, or setting the stage for receiving high-end items in the future.

Innovative Features

Expensive items have the newest, most innovative features, making them even more functional and versatile than anything else on the market. That means a lot of added value.

Special Occasions Made Memorable

Any occasion can be a good one for a special gift. Birthdays, graduations, milestone achievements, or important family events can all be great settings for giving something extraordinary.

Safety and Security

Higher quality means greater safety features. You can keep your teen safer even when they begin to spend more time away on their own.

Extended Warranties & Support

Manufacturers and sellers back expensive gifts, so you get to include extended warranties, and dedicated customer support, adding to better long-term satisfaction.

Personalized Experience

Many expensive items offer added perks, like personalization, customizable features, and add-ons that allow teens to tailor the product to their tastes and preferences.

Environmentally Conscious

Sustainability is important to the next generation, and many premium brands support this focus by ensuring ethical and sustainable sourcing and manufacturing.

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How to Choose

teenage girl opening presents with dad

Purpose & Functionality

Educational Value

Consider the educational value conveyed by the gift. Things like high-end telescopes, electronic kits, or quality art sets can give them joy while helping them to develop skills and knowledge.

Entertainment

VR sets, gaming consoles, games, drones, and other high-tech entertainment will give them hours of fun alone and with friends.

Practicality

Designer backpacks, smartwatches, premium headphones, and designer clothing are practical and popular.

Material & Craftsmanship

Choose durable and well-made items, so they can stand up to the often-demanding lifestyles of teens. Often on the move and still living halfway between childhood and adulthood, their possessions sometimes take some extra wear.

Warranty & Support

If a problem should occur, expensive items often come with good warranties and customer support. Look for these before you buy.

Unique Experiences

Often it is the best-remembered experience, so consider concert tickets, adventure trips, or workshops on interests they don’t yet get to pursue in school.

Customizable Items

A customized gift often seems more special, as it is unique and shows the added thought and care you put into choosing it. Personalization also helps ensure lost items find their way back to their owners.

Aesthetics & Design

Trendiness

Teens like being up to date with the latest trends, so observe your teen carefully and research popular designs and colors to see what is currently trending.

Timelessness

On the other hand, if the gift is intended to last for a lifetime, or at least many years, then something more classic and timeless might be a better choice. Classic might be better when it comes to watches, jewelry, and that kind of thing.

Safety & Age Appropriateness

Age Suitability

A thirteen-year-old is not a nineteen-year-old, even if they think they are, so remember that some things aimed at teens might not be appropriate for younger teens.

Safety Standards

Especially in the case of drones and other tech gadgets, ensure that they conform to all safety standards and regulations in the area the teen lives.

Developmental Relevance

Teens change quickly, year by year, so try to choose something that won’t fall out of use after a short time. The longer they want to use the gift, the better the value for both you and them.

Personal Growth & Skills

Gifts that assist with personal growth can be used longer, developing alongside the teen. Advanced art kits, for example, are suitable for a beginning artist and for one with some years of focused training behind them already.

Experience over Material

Gifts that give an experience, rather than an item, are often the most powerful and memorable. Consider an international trip, a special class or course, or a concert or theater event.

Quality over Quantity

Aim for the highest quality you can, even if that means fewer gifts, or smaller ones. The quality will give more over time than a larger quantity of cheapness.

Reviews & Recommendations

Look at user reviews, expert recommendations, and similar products to make sure what you are buying is the most appropriate and useful choice, and warrants the higher price tag.

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Types

teenage girl opening christmas gifts

Within each category are several types of gifts.

Backpacks

Backpacks are stylish, trendy, and useful, giving teens a hands-free way to carry what they need from class to class, or on casual, social occasions. Modern backpacks are light, sturdy, and often have integrated tech features for the plugged-in teen, like chargers or location trackers.

Tote Bags

Stylish and practical, tote bags are a versatile way to move from work to leisure settings and are excellent for older teens especially.

Crossbody Bags

Usually on the smaller end of the bag spectrum, and slung across the body for comfortable carrying, the crossbody bag is casual, practical, and doesn’t sacrifice style.

Clutches

The clutch is almost more jewelry than a bag for holding the bare essentials and nothing more. It is known for its high-impact fashion statement, chic and sophisticated, and can either elevate a more casual look or complement something formal.

Duffel Bags

Great for back and forth from the gym, or weekends away, the duffel is made for quick packing and easy access. It has a soft structure, so it folds away nicely when not in use, but holds its shape well enough when fully packed.

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Alternatives

High-Tech Gadgets

If the teen is into high-tech gadgets, but already has one – consider giving them a premium leather, or carbon fiber case instead. This will support the passion and the image, and keep their electronics safe.

Designer Clothing and Accessories

Consider something else if the teen you’re shopping for isn’t into designer brands. Commission some custom clothing, or buy some artisan jewelry or a bag, made locally, from a skilled artisan. If they are particularly interested in a certain region or culture, consider getting something inspired by that part of the world.

Luxury Jewelry and Timepieces

New jewelry is an option, but you might find more meaning in buying an antique watch, broach, necklace, or ring. Retro items are also popular with many teens.

Premium Sporting Equipment

For the active teen, you could buy high-end sporting equipment but also choose something out of the ordinary. Tickets to an exclusive game, or a live interview with a sports hero might go over very well, or you could arrange for advanced coaching from an expert, to give them that extra edge in the sport they love.

High-End Musical Instruments

You may not be able to afford that Stradivarius, but you could offer to rent a high-end instrument for that budding classical musician.

If their musical tastes run in a different direction, you could commission airbrushed art on an instrument they own, or a professional design for their band’s logo and overall look.

Deluxe Art Supplies

A teen with art supplies might not need more anytime soon, but you could give the gift of better skill by paying for a set of art lessons or a skills retreat.

Advanced Gaming Setups

If the gamer on your list already has the console and peripheral equipment they want, then consider buying a high-end gaming equipment rig. Set up monitors, consoles, games, and VR sets in a cool, organized way with a custom or versatile framework or cabinet.

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Post Purchase Considerations

Age Appropriateness

Make sure the gift suits the age of the recipient. Some games, for example, are made for over-18s, while others are for tweens and early teens – there is a big difference in content.

Tech & Trends

Technology moves quickly, so the best way to have a tech gift last as long as possible is to ensure it is upgradable, or designed to fit with upcoming technology releases.

Personal Preferences

Think of the gift, and then consider the teen alongside it. Make sure that style and personal preferences match. Elevate the quality where you can but within their chosen style.

Usage & Practicality

The best gifts are those that get used and appreciated regularly and for as long as possible. For example, if the teen relies on digital devices, a luxury fountain pen might sit untouched in a drawer or on a shelf, whereas a digital pen might become a daily-use item.

Safety & Security

Ensure the gift is safe and legal in the teen's area. Some items, like drones, are illegal in some areas, or require special licensing.

Sustainability & Ethics

Many teens don’t want items that harm the environment or others during sourcing and production. Ensure the item is produced by a company that considers these things, and you won’t have anything to worry about.

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FAQs

Why invest in high-priced gifts for teens?

High quality comes at a higher price, so it is worth it to spend more for products that are more durable, functional, and stylish than cheaper alternatives.

Can I include a personalized message or gift wrapping?

Yes. All items include the option to include a complimentary message at the time of checkout. We also offer premium gift-wrapping options.

Browse related gift guides below:

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed our article on picking a pricey gift for a teenager in your life.

If you have any questions or comments, contact us at info@vonbaer.com, or leave them in the comments.

Browse our other Gifts, Luxury, and Best pages for more inspiration.

Author: Albert Varkki

Albert Varkki is the co-founder of Von Baer. He understands leather products as a consumer, supplier, and a manufacturer, helping you with the inside knowledge you need, to choose the perfect leather product for you.

We always aim to have the highest editorial standards, and only publish accurate information on our website.

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